China Urges Philippines for Peaceful Development

BEIJING (Reuters) – China's foreign ministry on Thursday urged the Philippines to return to "peaceful development," criticizing Manila's deployment of a U.S. medium-range missile system for military exercises, stating it risks triggering an arms race in the region.

The U.S. Typhon system, which can launch cruise missiles capable of targeting China, was introduced for joint exercises earlier this year.

Philippine Defence Minister Gilberto Teodoro remarked that the Typhon's deployment was "legitimate, legal and beyond reproach." Furthermore, Army chief Roy Galido announced plans for the Philippines to acquire its own mid-range missile system.

The rivalry between China and the Philippines has intensified recently, particularly over conflicting claims in the South China Sea. Manila has also strengthened military ties with longtime ally Washington, contributing to heightened tensions.

"By cooperating with the United States in the introduction of Typhon, the Philippine side has surrendered its own security and national defence to others and introduced the risk of geopolitical confrontation and an arms race in the region, posing a substantial threat to regional peace and security," stated Mao Ning, spokesperson for China's foreign ministry.

Mao added, "We once again advise the Philippine side that the only correct choice for safeguarding its security is to adhere to strategic autonomy, good neighbourliness, and peaceful development." She emphasized that China would not remain passive if its security interests were threatened.

The Philippine embassy in Beijing did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment.

China asserts claims over nearly the entire South China Sea, a viewpoint contested by several Southeast Asian nations, including the Philippines.